One of the more intriguing story lines at the upcoming WBC should be the chance for unsung players to step up and share the spotlight with the household names of many of the Major League stars who will participate.

Perhaps big leaguers signed on for the WBC out of a sense of obligation. Perhaps they approach the global tournament with professional coolness. To them, and the game's fans, maybe it's little more than Spring Training turbocharged.

Fresh off finishing with a silver medal in the 2004 Olympics, Team Australia looks forward to another big stage during the World Baseball Classic. It is during that 16-country tournament in March that the "Land Down Under" will have a platform to prove how far it has come in baseball over the last few years.

In keeping with the international theme baseball is embracing in Spring Training, the Red Sox announced Thursday they will play Australia's World Baseball Classic team in an exhibition game Sunday, March 5, at City of Palms Park in Fort Myers, Fla.

Three Royals stars -- Matt Stairs, Aaron Guiel and Justin Huber -- have agreed to play in the inaugural World Baseball Classic this spring. If asked to participate in the tournament, Stairs and Guiel would represent Canada and Huber would play for Australia.

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